Olga Helmy

Science Delivery Specialist

Olga Helmy profile photo

Email: olga.helmy@usda.gov


Address:
790 E Beckwith Ave
Missoula, MT 59801

Curriculum Vitae

Education

2008 - 2012 Post-graduate studies, University of Montana Wildlife Biology Program

1999 M.A., Entomology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas

1996 B.S., Zoology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois

Background

I am a science delivery specialist with a background in ecological research. To communicate science, I draw upon over a decade of formal training as an ecologist and a suite of practical communication skills learned on-the-job, including graphic design, data visualization, interpretive writing, photo/videography, and interpersonal communication. This unique combination of experiences allows me to effectively translate science to diverse audiences using plain language and easily interpretable visual media. Whatever the project, I work with the goal of making science clear, concise, and accessible.

Recent projects include creating on-line content for conservation and education organizations, developing exhibits for STEM-focused museums, and synthesizing fire ecology literature for the Rocky Mountain Research Station’s Missoula Fire Sciences Laboratory. At the Aldo Leopold Wilderness Research Institute I facilitate communication between ALWRI research staff, the public, and practitioners-in-the-field, ensuring the results of our research efforts are readily available and accessible to managers across the National Wilderness Preservation System.

Recent Professional Experience

Science Delivery Specialist, Aldo Leopold Wilderness Research Institute, 2022 - present.

I facilitate communication between ALWRI research staff and managers-in-the-field, ensuring the results of our research efforts are available to managers across the National Wilderness Preservation System.

Writer and Technical Information Specialist, Fire Effects Information Systems, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Missoula Fire Sciences Laboratory, 2020 - 2022.

I conducted literature reviews and wrote species syntheses about plants and animals that are affected by fire. I combined research, writing and design skills to develop reports and interpretive materials for resource and fire managers, and the public at large.

Highlights:

Founder and Director, Elucidate Science Communication, Missoula, MT, 2018 - 2020.

I created content that communicates science, with clear language and graphics, for the benefit of the public. This work included concept development, writing, graphic design, layout, fine art and photography.

Highlights:

Media Artist-in-Residence, spectrUM Discovery Area, Missoula MT, 2016 - 2018.                               

Duties included: Layout and graphic design for museum signage. Drafting social media outreach materials. In-house and event photography for documentation and promotional materials. Video capture and editing. I am proficient with the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, including Photoshop, Lightroom, CameraRaw, Illustrator, In-Design and Premier Pro.